By Amos Harris
The Government of Liberia has reaffirmed its steadfast commitment to fostering a professional and well-supported military. During the graduation ceremony of the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) Officer Candidates Class 12–2025, Finance and Development Planning Minister Augustine Kpehe Ngafuan detailed a series of significant investments and reforms designed to bolster national defense and improve the lives of service members.
The ceremony, held on Monday at the Barclay Training Center (BTC) in Monrovia, saw 56 new officers formally commissioned into the national army. Speaking to the graduates, Minister Ngafuan described the event as more than just a milestone for the individuals involved; he characterized it as a symbol of Liberia’s deliberate progress in rebuilding its essential national institutions. He emphasized that the Unity Party-led administration, under President Joseph N. Boakai, remains dedicated to strengthening the AFL through enhanced professionalism, improved welfare, and consistent budgetary support.
The event was attended by a distinguished gathering of senior government officials, members of the Legislature, the Minister of National Defense, the AFL High Command, and national security leaders, alongside the families of the graduating class. Delivering remarks on behalf of President Boakai, the Commander-in-Chief, Minister Ngafuan congratulated the graduates and praised the AFL leadership for its dedication to the state. He specifically noted the diversity of the new officer class, which includes medical personnel, band members, and combat officers who transitioned from the enlisted ranks.
Minister Ngafuan urged the new officers to lead with empathy, discipline, and integrity, reminding them that true military leadership is defined by service and sacrifice rather than power. He highlighted the government’s tangible financial support, revealing that the approved FY2026 National Budget allocates $20.7 million to the Ministry of National Defense, with $18.3 million specifically set aside for the AFL. A significant portion of this—more than $12.7 million—is dedicated to personnel compensation to ensure the welfare of those in uniform.
The Minister further announced a $500,000 allocation for the renovation of military barracks, building upon current improvements at the BTC, Camp Jones, Camp Whisner, and Camp Grant. These upgrades are intended to enhance living conditions and provide better stability for military families. Other key initiatives mentioned include continued funding for the 14th Military Hospital, the expansion of Coast Guard patrols to 200 nautical miles, the reactivation of three AFL units, and plans to recruit approximately 500 new soldiers in 2026.
According to Minister Ngafuan, these achievements represent “promises kept” by the President, transitioning from vision statements to active, budgeted line items. He shared a personal anecdote from a recent visit to Gbarnga, where soldiers expressed their gratitude for improved salaries and living conditions, noting that such feedback underscores the human impact of public policy.
Addressing the graduates’ constitutional duties, the Minister warned against the abuse of authority and stressed that respect must be earned through character. Quoting Dwight D. Eisenhower, he reminded the officers that integrity is the supreme quality of leadership. He also called for seamless coordination between the AFL and other security entities, such as the police, immigration, and intelligence services, to safeguard the nation.
Minister Ngafuan concluded by assuring the newly commissioned officers of the government’s unwavering support. He urged them to uphold the core values of duty, honor, and country, reminding them that the people of Liberia trust them to protect the nation’s peace and its future. The ceremony ended with the formal certification of the officers, marking the start of a new chapter in their service to the Republic.